By Resolution 47/3 of 1992, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed December 3rd of each year as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). This celebration is an opportunity to pause and assess the progress made in the development of persons with disabilities, identify the difficulties encountered, and look to the future while taking into account new challenges. It is also a time to showcase their abilities, potential, and talents, and to mobilize the international community to support the dignity and well-being of persons with disabilities.
In Cameroon, where this International Day has been actively celebrated annually since its inception under the theme chosen by the UN, the main outcomes generally expected include:
- the effective celebration of the Day;
- raising awareness of the theme within the national community;
- exploring strategies to address the concerns of persons with disabilities at the sectoral level.
General Objective
Mobilize the national community around the integration of the disability and vulnerable population approach into development programs and projects.
Specific Objectives
- Popularize laws and regulations relating to the protection and advancement of persons with disabilities;
- Encourage the commitment of public and private administrations and partners to integrate the disability approach and carry out specific actions for persons with disabilities;
- Raise awareness among the national community about the theme of the day;
- Identify mechanisms and strategies for involving persons with disabilities in the development process;
- Identify social barriers to persons with disabilities.
Strategies
Behavior Change Communication (BCC) for persons with disabilities;
Advocacy and lobbying for better consideration of the concerns of persons with disabilities in development programs;
Communication for the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and national legal instruments for the protection and promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities; Strengthening disability prevention, rehabilitation, and socioeconomic integration initiatives for people with disabilities;
Building the capacity of people with disabilities and their support organizations to participate in development;
Advocating for the representation of people with disabilities in public and political life;
Promoting initiatives led by people with disabilities and their support organizations to empower them;
Signing partnership agreements with specialized organizations responsible for training and professional integration.
Activities
Preparatory meetings; Socio-educational exchanges; Sports activities; Communication to change behavior and attitudes; Exhibition fairs; Launch and closing ceremonies, etc.
Partners
Public, parapublic, and private administrations, international organizations, civil society organizations, religious communities, and organizations of people with disabilities.